Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded significant operational gains between March 28 and 30, 2026, successfully foiling planned terrorist attacks, disrupting logistics networks, and arresting multiple suspects across Borno State and surrounding areas.
According to a military statement issued by the Media Information Office, troops deployed in Damboa detected movement linked to Boko Haram/ISWAP elements through surveillance systems. The terrorists, who were reportedly preparing to launch an attack, were engaged by the troops and forced to retreat in disarray. Follow-up operations confirmed that the insurgents withdrew from the area.
In a related development, troops successfully repelled attempted attacks on farming communities in Gwoza and Askira Uba Local Government Areas of Borno State. The attackers were forced to flee towards the Mandara Mountains and adjoining locations, reinforcing ongoing efforts by security forces to deny insurgents operational freedom in the region.
During clearance operations along the Goniri–Ngamdu axis, troops uncovered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted along a major route. The device was safely detonated by explosives experts, preventing potential casualties. Military sources noted that the discovery of rail tracks used to funnel vehicles into ambush zones points to continued attempts by insurgents to disrupt movement and target both civilians and security personnel.
In a major blow to terrorist logistics, troops intercepted two vehicles transporting large quantities of suspected supplies along the Maiduguri–Mafa road. The items, concealed in sacks and believed to be equivalent to two truckloads, included cartons of medical drugs, motorcycle tubes and tyres, mosquito nets, rolls of mats, air filter cylinders, and detergents. Preliminary investigations suggest the consignment was being moved without clearance to Kusuri, a border community near Chad. The vehicles, drivers, and recovered items have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.
Troops, working in conjunction with operatives of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), also arrested a suspect identified as Mohammed Adamu (26) at Muna Garage. Items recovered from him included 25 litres of engine oil concealed in sacks, ₦624,900 in cash, a mobile phone, power bank, and identification documents. Security sources indicate that the suspect is believed to have been involved in the supply of logistics, including motorcycle parts, to terrorist groups over time.
In Gubio Local Government Area, coordinated operations involving troops, intelligence personnel, and CJTF members led to the arrest of 13 suspected logistics suppliers and collaborators. Two additional suspects were later apprehended in the same area and reportedly confessed to having supported terrorist groups with supplies over an extended period.
Troops also intercepted a suspected member of the JAS/ISWAP group, Abubakar Ali, popularly known as “Saina,” at the Kilo Papa checkpoint while allegedly traveling to Maiduguri. Preliminary interrogation indicates that the suspect may have been on a reconnaissance mission. He has since been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.
In another operation, troops arrested a suspected kidnapper in the Azir area of Damboa Local Government Area. Additionally, clearance and cordon-and-search operations conducted at Wulgo Junction, Gamboru Motor Park, and surrounding communities led to the recovery of 450 wraps of suspected cannabis and other illicit substances. Suspected drug peddlers reportedly fled upon sighting troops.
Military authorities described the series of operations as part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and deny them access to logistics and operational support. They commended the troops for their resilience, vigilance, and professionalism, while urging them to maintain the momentum in ongoing operations across the theatre.
The statement emphasized that the continued pressure on insurgents is aimed at restoring stability, ensuring the safety of civilians, and supporting economic activities in the North East region.
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